Iloilo city: Three Ilonggo seafarers whose vessel was damaged in a drone attack in Ukraine arrived home on Wednesday. "We are happy to inform that at last our three seafarers affected by the drone attack are finally home," Iloilo Public Employment Service Office (PESO) head Cynthia Dario said.

According to Philippines News Agency, the three were aboard the M/V Inase when it was hit in a drone attack while transiting Odesa, Ukraine, on July 18. Dario mentioned that personnel from the provincial government joined the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration in welcoming the distressed overseas Filipino workers at the Iloilo International Airport in Cabatuan.

Two of the seafarers are from the Iloilo towns of Miagao and Dingle, while the third is from Iloilo City. Upon arrival, the seafarers proceeded to the Iloilo Provincial Capitol, where they expressed their gratitude to the provincial government for assisting in their repatriation. They were received by Provincial Administrator Raul Banias.

Dario emphasized that the seafarers' immediate priority is rest. Their employer will provide psychosocial support in Manila, while the provincial government remains prepared to offer additional interventions if required. The provincial government is also processing documents for financial assistance. "We have our regular program, and on top of that, our governor will extend additional assistance," Dario stated.

She further mentioned that the returning seafarers informed authorities about other Ilonggo seafarers aboard different vessels being affected by the ongoing conflict. Consequently, the provincial government has started coordinating with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration and the Department of Migrant Workers to facilitate assistance and possible repatriation for the other affected seafarers.